Denmark host Spain in the fifth game of the Nations League group stages, with both teams vying for top spot in the table.
Date: 15/11/24
Kick-off time: 19:45
Venue: Parken
This is a crucial game in determining who goes through to the next stage as group winners. A point for Spain ensures they finish in the top two as they currently sit in first with 10 points. A victory would confirm their status as group winners. They are unbeaten so far with three wins and a draw, with their only dropped points coming against Serbia in the opening game. Luis de la Fuente’s side have continued their dominance following their Euros triumph.
Looking to stop them is a strong Denmark side with plenty of Premier League talent. They trail leaders Spain by just three points, knowing a victory could see them overtake their opponents. A point may be enough to finish second, depending on the result of the other fixture in the group.
Goals may be hard to come by for the hosts due to Spain’s impressive defensive record in the tournament. In four games, they have conceded just once, and this came in a 4-1 win over Switzerland. Denmark have had similar defensive success, allowing three goals with two clean sheets. However, emphasis will be on their attack if they are to come away with three points. Man United’s Rasmus Hojlund will likely lead the line as he still searches for his first goal of the competition. He has scored just twice for United in all competitions this season.
Despite opening the Nations League with a goalless draw, Spain have been potent in front of goal having scored seven in their last three. They have spread the goals out as Fabian Ruiz leads the way with two strikes. This could be an opportunity for different players to get an opportunity, in particular Porto’s Samu Omorodion. The 20-year-old has impressed early, scoring a combined 11 goals in the league and Europe.
This will be the 18th meeting between these two countries, and as expected, Spain have been the superior side. They have 13 wins overall, losing just twice. However, games have been scarce in recent years with the reverse fixture in October the first since 2008. Spain are currently on a five-game winning streak against their opponents and have won seven of the last eight dating back to 1993. October saw the Spaniards win 1-0 at home with a winner from Martin Zubimendi.